Basic Information
Ariake Garden is a large-scale mixed-use commercial facility that opened in Tokyo’s waterfront area in 2020, celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2025. Spread across 10.7 hectares, this complex brings together various facilities that offer a full day of entertainment.
Access
Getting there is pretty convenient by train – just 4 minutes on foot from Ariake Station on the Yurikamome Line, or 5 minutes from Kokusai-Tenjijo Station on the Rinkai Line. If you’re driving, there’s a large parking facility available, so no worries about finding a spot.
Shopping Experience
Diverse Store Selection
With over 200 stores, the shopping options are pretty extensive. The standout attraction is the Kanto region’s largest MUJI store, covering an impressive 4,628 square meters. They offer bulk buying services and Ariake-exclusive products that MUJI fans will definitely appreciate.
In 2025, six new stores opened, including Ena cram school, Grandeal bakery, and the popular Loft store that everyone knows and loves.
Shopping Environment
The corridors are designed to be wide, making it easy to navigate even with strollers. Since the facility is relatively new, it maintains a clean and comfortable atmosphere throughout.
Dining & Food
Two Food Courts
There are two food courts: the “Ariake Diner” on the 5th floor and “ARIAKE FOOD STAGE” on the 2nd floor, which opened in January 2025. The new food court features Domino’s Pizza as their first food court location, which is pretty unique.
However, when events are held at Tokyo Garden Theater, the 8,000-capacity venue can create significant crowds, so timing your visit is important.
Restaurant Area
The 5th floor houses various restaurants offering everything from casual dining to more sophisticated cuisine across different cuisines.
Family-Friendly Facilities
Free Kids’ Space
The free kids’ area on the 4th floor is divided by age groups, making it safe for children to play. It operates on a time-slot system with capacity limits to prevent overcrowding.
Looking at user reviews, many parents appreciate being able to “let their kids play while shopping,” making it popular with families. However, weekends can require waiting tickets and queuing.
Water Play Area
The water terrace next to the food court allows for water play during summer months. While there’s no changing room, you can secure an outdoor table and enjoy the area without issues.
Hot Spring Facility
“Izumi Tenkuu no Yu Ariake Garden” is a 24-hour hot spring facility featuring natural hot springs sourced from 1,500 meters underground. It offers various baths including daily rotating special baths and carbonated springs, plus rock saunas and restaurants.
Being able to relax in hot springs after shopping is a unique feature you won’t find at other shopping facilities.
Entertainment
Event Venues
Tokyo Garden Theater is a large event hall with a maximum capacity of 8,000 people, hosting everything from famous artist concerts to Shiki Theatre Company performances.
For the 5th anniversary in 2025, a dinosaur live show “A Dinosaur Odyssey 2025” is being held from August 15-24.
User Feedback
Positive Aspects
Based on review sites and visitor feedback, the following points are well-regarded:
- Clean and modern facilities
- Wide corridors that accommodate strollers easily
- Well-equipped free kids’ space
- Diverse shopping and dining options
- Convenient access
Areas for Improvement
On the other hand, some challenges have been noted:
- Weekend crowding (especially at the kids’ space)
- Extreme congestion during major events
- The facility is so large it’s hard to see everything in one day
Crowd Levels
Weekdays tend to be relatively peaceful, but weekends can get crowded. During major events, visitor numbers increase dramatically, so it’s wise to check the event schedule beforehand.
Summary
Ariake Garden functions as a large-scale complex where shopping, dining, entertainment, and hot springs can all be enjoyed in one location. It’s particularly well-equipped for families, with an environment where parents with children can spend an entire day comfortably.
Even five years after opening, new stores continue to open, suggesting this facility will keep evolving. For those considering a trip to Tokyo’s waterfront area, it’s definitely worth a visit.
However, you should be prepared for crowds on weekends and during events. Visiting on weekdays or non-event days will likely provide a more comfortable experience.
